Book Review: Behavior Solutions for the Inclusive Classroom

Understanding why a child behaves a certain way can make a big difference in creating a supportive classroom. Behavior Solutions for the Inclusive Classroom by Peter Gennaro, Beth Aune, and Beth Burt is a practical reference guide that helps teachers look beyond challenging behaviors and consider what a child may be communicating through those behaviors.

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The book addresses many behaviors teachers may encounter in an inclusive classroom, including getting out of a seat, fidgeting, hand-flapping, covering the ears, hiding or running away when upset, shutting down, difficulty completing schoolwork, losing materials, poor handwriting, difficulty following directions, excessive talking, temper outbursts, and clothing issues.

One of the most useful features is its focus on quick, practical solutions. Rather than simply identifying a behavior, the authors help teachers consider possible reasons behind it and what they can do in the moment. This can be particularly helpful for general education teachers who may not have extensive experience recognizing sensory needs or other learning differences.

Key Benefits of Behavior Solutions for the Inclusive Classroom:

• Looks beyond behavior: Encourages teachers to consider what a child’s behavior may be communicating.
• Provides practical strategies: Offers solutions teachers can use when challenging behaviors occur.
• Supports inclusive classrooms: Helps educators accommodate different learning and sensory needs.
• Covers a wide range of behaviors: Addresses everything from fidgeting and out-of-seat behavior to shutdowns and temper outbursts.
• Helps teachers respond in the moment: The reference format makes it easy to look up a concern and find potential strategies.
• Encourages a positive classroom environment: Focuses on supporting students while maintaining an environment where all children can learn.
• Useful for multiple professionals: Parents, teachers, special education staff, and other professionals can use the book as a reference.

Another strength is the authors’ varied backgrounds. Beth Aune is a pediatric occupational therapist, Beth Burt is a special needs parent and advocate, and Peter Gennaro has extensive experience in special education and inclusion. Their combined perspectives bring together therapeutic, educational, and family experiences.

Final Thoughts

Behavior Solutions for the Inclusive Classroom is a useful reference for teachers who want to better understand challenging behaviors and respond with practical, supportive strategies. By encouraging educators to ask why a behavior is happening rather than simply trying to stop it, the book provides a helpful framework for creating a more inclusive classroom where students with different needs can participate and learn.

To purchase, click the image/link below!

Behavior Solutions for the Inclusive Classroom: A Handy Reference Guide that Explains Behaviors Associated with Autism, Asperger’s, ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, and other Special Needs

 

Recommended Reading

• More Behavior Solutions In and Beyond the Inclusive Classroom
• A Teacher’s Guide to Sensory Processing Disorder, SPD
• Sensory Solutions in the Classroom for the Kid Who Cannot Sit Still

About Author Beth Aune

Beth Aune, OTR/L, currently has a private practice as a pediatric occupational therapist in the Coachella Valley area. She and her dedicated staff provide intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities, and other diagnoses in a variety of environments: early intervention in the home, for general and special education students in the school setting, and in the clinical setting. Beth has developed and presented numerous workshops and trainings for parents and educators that focus on the care and treatment of children with disabilities. She lives in Palm Desert with her three children.

Beth Burt currently resides in Southern California with her husband, their two sons, two cats and a dog. Because of her experience with her own children, one with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the other with a learning disability, she became an advocate. She has over 13 years of experience collaborating and advocating on the behalf of students with ASD and other disorders. She has been actively involved in numerous task forces and committees related to children, disabilities and education. She has presented numerous times in Southern California to colleges, conferences, parent groups and businesses. She is currently President of the Inland Empire Autism Society and is a board member of the Autism Society California and Visions R Us, a nonprofit organization that assists young adults with special needs in making the transition from high school to desired employment.

Peter Gennaro is currently the Director of Special Education for the Alvord Unified School District in Southern California. He has served as Special Education Coordinator and as Program/Inclusion Specialist prior this. As a teacher, he taught classes for students with emotional disturbance and has taught direct service special education classes consisting of students with varying disabilities. In his current position he continues to work closely with teachers, service providers, and families to develop and implement successful student programs.